ALLOW USE OF CROSSBOWS FOR FISHING

Senate Bill 897

Sponsor:  Sen. Darwin L. Booher

House Committee:  Natural Resources, Tourism, and Outdoor Recreation

Senate Committee:  Outdoor Recreation and Tourism

Complete to 6-4-12

A SUMMARY OF SENATE BILL 897 AS PASSED BY THE SENATE 3-21-12

The bill would allow the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to issue an order regulating the taking of fish with a crossbow.  It amends Part 847 (Sport Fishing) of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act (NREPA). Part 847 currently allows the DNR to regulate the taking of fish with a spear or bow and arrow. 

Under the act, "crossbow" means a weapon consisting of a bow mounted transversely on a stock or frame and designed to fire an arrow, bolt, or quarrel by the release of a bow string that is controlled by a mechanical or electric trigger and has a working safety and a draw weight of 100 pounds or greater.

MCL 324.48703

FISCAL IMPACT:

Senate Bill 897 would have no fiscal impact to the State of Michigan or local units of government.

                                                                                           Legislative Analyst:   Jeff Stoutenburg

                                                                                                  Fiscal Analyst:   Viola Bay Wild

■ This analysis was prepared by nonpartisan House staff for use by House members in their deliberations, and does not constitute an official statement of legislative intent.